- Farnborough International Airshow 2026 opens on Monday, with Boeing and Airbus pursuing aircraft deals amid a focus on defence spending driven by ongoing conflicts.
- Day One flying display features multiple aircraft, starting with the British Army’s Red Devils parachute display team and including the F-35A demonstration and Vertical Aerospace’s VX4 electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.
- The afternoon programme will showcase the Airbus A350 XWB, Embraer C-390 Millennium, and Bombardier Global 8000, along with fast-jet appearances from the Italian Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon and Czech Air Force L-159.
- Defence companies will make up half of a record 1,600 exhibitors at the show, indicating a shift from its commercial aviation roots to a focus on military technology.
- Conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East have transformed spending priorities, accelerating demand for new defence technologies, including unmanned fighter jets and kamikaze drones.
The Farnborough International Airshow kicked off on July 20, 2023, with a spotlight on aircraft orders and military spending amid global conflicts.5
Boeing and Airbus are projected to secure over 300 aircraft orders, significantly below the anticipated 800 due to ongoing supply-chain constraints.
The event features a record 1,600 exhibitors, with defense companies making up half, reflecting a shift from its commercial aviation roots since its inception in 1948. This change is driven by increased military budgets influenced by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, leading to a surge in demand for advanced defense technologies.
The Day One flying display commenced at 13:10 BST, showcasing a variety of military and commercial aircraft. Highlights included the British Army's Red Devils parachute team, the F-35A demonstration, and the Airbus A350 XWB.2
The full schedule featured numerous aircraft, including the Embraer C-390 Millennium and the Italian Air Force's Eurofighter Typhoon, culminating with the UAE's Fursan Al Emarat aerobatic team.
Organizers noted that flying schedules are subject to change due to operational requirements and weather conditions, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the airshow.
“Defence companies constitute half of a record 1,600 exhibitors, highlighting a shift driven by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Boeing's commercial airplane unit head said the company is focused on increasing quality and output, not order announcements, as analysts expect total orders to fall short of 800.”
